When people think of basic estate planning, wills and trusts often come to mind. There are so many different types of wills and trusts that you may have a lot to consider before choosing your estate planning strategy. A living trust is one of many important components of a good estate plan. But there are many myths surrounding this particular estate planning tool. Kansas estate planning attorneys at Gaughan & Connealy are here to dispel some of the common myths about the living … [Read more...] about Dispelling the Common Myths about a Living Trust
The ABCs of Legacy Planning
Have you heard the news? Kansas City is home to some of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the country! According to a study conducted by Stephen Higley, urban geography professor at the University of Montevallo, there are four metro neighborhoods in Kansas City that are among the nation's 1,000 wealthiest neighborhoods and incorporated suburbs. Higley based his findings on 2010 Census data. If you are among the wealthiest residents in Kansas City, then hopefully you are familiar with legacy … [Read more...] about The ABCs of Legacy Planning
4 Major Benefits of a Durable Power of Attorney
A durable power of attorney can be used in estate planning in order to choose someone to take over and manage your affairs in the event you become incapacitated for some reason. Regardless of whether your incapacity is permanent or merely temporary, a power of attorney can work for you. However, the power of attorney must be designated as "durable," if you want it to remain in effect after you are determined to be incapacitated.What is a power of attorney?A general power of attorney … [Read more...] about 4 Major Benefits of a Durable Power of Attorney
Using Wills and Trusts in your Estate Plan
No matter how old you are or what your status is in life, you should prepare yourself and your family for the chance that you become incapacitated in some way, as well as, for the eventuality of death. Estate planning is the best way to do that. Wills and trusts are two of the most common tools you can include in your estate plan. Your estate plan should be customized to fit your specific needs and to protect the future of your family.Why is it so important to plan ahead?Planning … [Read more...] about Using Wills and Trusts in your Estate Plan
6 Important Facts about Guardianship
We all dread the day when a parent or other loved one becomes too ill or injured to care for themselves. While it doesn't happen to everyone, it does happen. But, if that time has come for you, and a loved one needs help handling their own affairs, it may be time to consider a guardianship. Understanding what that means exactly can make the decision much easier. Here is what you need to know.#1 - How a guardianship is establishedThe process of creating a guardianship requires court … [Read more...] about 6 Important Facts about Guardianship
Do I Need an Elder Law Attorney?
With so many different types of attorneys out there, with different specialties, you may be wondering whether an elder law attorney is the type of attorney you need for your specific legal issues. An elder law attorney primarily handles issues relating to seniors. This can include nursing home issues, estate planning, and guardianships, just to name a few. So, when would you need an elder law attorney?The training and experience of an elder law attorneyElder law attorneys receive special … [Read more...] about Do I Need an Elder Law Attorney?
Kansas City Autism Training Center Provides a Day School Program
When you think of autism, you may think of a life-long impairment that affects nearly every aspect of a child's life and development. While this devastating disorder certainly comes with its challenges, decades of research have led to amazing treatment that continues to improve the lives of these children. The Kansas City Autism Training Center provides a wide variety of services and training for children with autism and their families. These special needs families can benefit greatly from the … [Read more...] about Kansas City Autism Training Center Provides a Day School Program
Do-it-Yourself Estate Planning
When it comes to estate planning, save your do-it-yourself kits for remodeling your home. Although it has become so easy to find do-it-yourself estate planning products, resist the urge. While these products may seem like a money-saver, the reality is computer generated forms simply do not compare to estate planning through an experienced attorney. Even if the document you purchased comes with assurances that it will work as you expect, there truly is no guarantee. Estate planning simply is … [Read more...] about Do-it-Yourself Estate Planning
Your Missouri Probate Attorney Can Help You Avoid Probate
Although so many people believe that they should avoid probate, not many really understand what that means. Avoiding probate does not necessarily mean you can avoid estate taxes or other expenses. Having a last will and testament does not mean you can necessarily avoid probate. In fact, there are many misconceptions about probate. But, if you want to avoid it, you should talk to your Missouri probate attorney before you make a decision.Four primary ways to avoid probateIn most cases, … [Read more...] about Your Missouri Probate Attorney Can Help You Avoid Probate
Drafting Your Last Will and Testament
If you ask someone about estate planning, their first thought will be creating a last will and testament. That is probably the most common estate planning tool there is. The will must have the appropriate language to accomplish the goals you have for your own estate plan. The best way to ensure your will is drafted correctly, you need to have the assistance of a Missouri or Kansas estate planning attorney.Drafting the Last Will and TestamentThe Last Will and Testament, or “will” for … [Read more...] about Drafting Your Last Will and Testament
